FAQs

1) How do I initiate the request for an H-1B and/or Employment-Based Permanent Residence process?

The employee must seek approval from his/her supervisor. Hiring Departments must then initiate the case request with HR. HR will evaluate the case to determine the eligibility for the H-1B and or Permanent Residence process.

An email from the following stating the sponsorship is approved would suffice:

Academic Units must obtain approvals from Dean and Chair

Administrative Divisions must obtain approvals fromDepartment Heads

Once the Immigration Team has received the approvals further instruction and forms will be provided to initiate the case. Please forward approvals to Arizve Ochoa-Retana at aoretana@utep.edu and Gabriela Montes at gmontes5@utep.ed

Please visit the H-1B specialty Occupation section for more information.

2) What documents should I carry when traveling?

When traveling outside the US we recommend to have the following documents:

Original I-797

Copy of H1-B petition filed with USCIS on your behalf

Valid unexpired passport

Valid unexpired visa

I-94 printout

Verification of employment letter

3) How can I track the progress of my case with USCIS?

If you have a pending case with USCIS, you can enter your receipt number here to check on your case’s status.

It's recommended to start working on the request to extend the H-1B status at least 7-6 months prior to the current expiration date. Please contact Gabriela Montes at gmontes5@utep.edu or Arizve Ochoa-Retana at aoretana@utep.edu

5) Where can I find my electronic I-94?

If you need to retrieve form I-94, Request Travel History and Check Travel Compliance please visit the following web page.